THE BIG CAT NAP

A Virginia farmer and her remarkable pets celebrate the 20th anniversary of their first appearance in print with—what else?—yet another case of murder.

Mary Minor Haristeen, aka Harry, and her husband, equine veterinarian Fair Haristeen, both enjoy the hard work and the many pleasures of farming in Crozet, Va. Born and bred there, former postmistress Harry has many friends, but her closest companions are her cats, Mrs. Murphy and Pewter, and her brave corgi, Tee Tucker. A minor car accident with her friend Miranda reminds Harry that the local ReNu, one of a chain of collision repair shops run by Victor Gatzembizi, is popular for its low repair costs. ReNu is also a favorite with another local businessperson, Latigo Bly, the owner of Safe & Sound insurance. A trip to ReNu to pick up the Very Reverend Herbert Jones’ truck leads to the shocking discovery of the body of a mechanic, brutally murdered with a tire iron. The Sheriff and Harry’s friend Deputy Cynthia Cooper know that the ever-curious Harry won’t be able to leave the case alone. When more mechanics are murdered, Harry continues to investigate in between her farm chores and her work for the community. Her pets have pulled her out of danger many times in the past, but this time they have their paws full.

Brown (Cat of the Century, 2010, etc.) spins a thin mystery in which top honors go to the author’s love for her beloved Virginia countryside and for her animal characters, who as usual steal the show.